Entrepreneurial Competences and Sustainability of Manufacturing Firms in South-East, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was an investigation on entrepreneurial competences and sustainability of manufacturing firms in South-east, Nigeria. The motivation for the study was informed by the wave of innovation that is currently affecting every aspect of the business world, including the manufacturing sector. The study was anchored on the Dynamic Capability Theory. The study adopted a correlational research design and utilized a structured questionnaire administered to employees of selected manufacturing firms across the South East region. Using a sample size of 372 respondents determined using the Krejcie and Morgan formula. The primary data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. The hypotheses were tested using multiple linear regression technique. The findings revealed that there is no significant relationship between innovativeness and sustainability of manufacturing firms in South-east, Nigeria, and that there is no significant relationship between risk-taking behaviour and sustainability of manufacturing firms in South-east, Nigeria. In view of the findings from the study, the study concluded that entrepreneurial competences affect sustainability of manufacturing firms in south east, Nigeria, and recommended that manufacturing firms should invest in research, development, and innovation processes: Managers of manufacturing firms should revisit how research and development or innovation is supported. They should establish formal innovation procedures and consequently, provide adequate resources for research and development. They should also involve employees in ideation. Such efforts should be aligned with market needs to ensure they translate into tangible competitive advantages.